Facebook has announced its Internet.org platform, an open program for developers to create services that will integrate with internet.org.
This move aims to lower the barrier to internet access in developing nations.
According to Facebook’s blogpost, “Our goal with internet.org is to work with as many developers and entrepreneurs as possible to extend the benfits of connectivity to diverse, local communities. To do this, we are going to offer sevices through Internet.org in a way that’s transparent and inclusive.”
Developers have to adhere to these criteria:
— Services should encourage the exploration of the broader internet wherever possible.
— Websites that require high-bandwidth will not be included. Services should not use VoIP, video, file transfer, high resolution photos, or high volume of photos.
— Facebook expects partner services to be optimized for smartphones and feature phones, and be free from JavaScript or SSL/TLS/HTTPS elements.
The idea of internet.org was earlier criticised with claims that it violates the principles of net neutrality but Mark Zuckerberg says it is important to widen internet access. He said in a post on his Facebook wall.
“We fully support net neutrality. We want to keep the internet open. Net neutrality ensures network operators don’t discriminate by limiting access to services you want to use. It’s an essential part of the open internet, and we are fully committed to it.
But net neutrality is not in conflict with working to get more people connected. These two principles — universal connectivity and net neutrality — can and must coexist.”
Internet.org has launched India and Indonesia and expanded to a few African countries. It looks like Facebook is making the platform even more open and transparent.
Image via: internet.org
